Sunday, December 12, 2010

It will be quite a night in Cuyutlan.



It is the last night of the Festival for the Virgin of Guadalupe.  After the dancers arrive in the main street across from the church, the Toritos come out, (young men put on bamboo cages made to look like bulls - toros, so toritos is little bull)  Below is a photo of the unfinished frame in back of the church. 

Fireworks are strapped on these cages.



At certain times during the dancing, the rockets are lit and the torito runs, that's right, runs through the crowd.  People are screaming, running every which way.  It is a blast!  Do I have to point out that would never be allowed in the united states.  Last time I was almost trampled by a little old lady trying to get out of their way.  Ok so her shawl was slightly on fire.....

The best part is the Castillo (castle) that is set up in front of the church.  It too is a bamboo structure and filled with fireworks.  When lit a chain reaction of explosions and fireworks are set off. 
Lots more screaming, it is very exciting.
Finally the top is lighting up, the fireworks spin the top around and it actually lifts off and flies into the black sky.

I wish I was in Cuyutlan tonight.... Especially tonight.

1 comment:

The Fevered Brain said...

This year there was a likeness of the Virgin of Guadalupe atop the castillo. When the final burst came she was jettisoned out into the dark night and soared over the beach into the ocean. Very dramatic! One of the guests staying at the casa was rather severely burned on her arm when one of the sparklers hit her. ¡Es la vida loca! See you soon. Feliz Navidad.